Despite a successful 10-win season that nearly resulted in a playoff berth, the Seattle Seahawks have initiated a bold and risky offseason overhaul under head coach Mike Macdonald. Instead of maintaining the status quo, the organization made significant changes, signaling a decisive break from its recent past.
The most dramatic moves came on offense, where the team parted ways with two of its cornerstones. Quarterback Geno Smith was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders for a third-round pick after contract talks stalled. Shortly after, the Seahawks traded star wide receiver DK Metcalf for a second-round pick, a move prompted by mutual interest in a fresh start before Metcalf’s next contract negotiation.
To fill these voids, Seattle made a significant gamble on quarterback Sam Darnold, signing him to a three-year, $100.5 million contract following his career-best season with the Minnesota Vikings. The move represents a calculated risk, betting that Darnold, once a top draft pick, has permanently elevated his game. The receiving corps was also reshaped, with the release of veteran Tyler Lockett and the signing of former All-Pro Cooper Kupp. These changes place a greater offensive burden on Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who is coming off a Pro Bowl season where he recorded 100 receptions for 1,130 yards.
The Seahawks’ front office praised its decisive approach. “We kept a mentality throughout, why are we making these decisions?” Macdonald said. “If we go down this road, what does it look like? Is it best for our team? That’s the criteria.”
Offensively, the team hopes new coordinator Klint Kubiak can replicate the success he found early last season with the Saints. The plan involves implementing a balanced attack that emphasizes a physical running game led by Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet, which could ease the pressure on Darnold.
Defensively, the team aims to build on a strong finish to last season. After acquiring linebacker Ernest Jones IV from the Titans mid-season, the defense transformed into one of the league’s top units. From Week 10 onward, Seattle’s defense ranked sixth in the NFL in Expected Points Added (EPA) per play, a stark improvement from 21st prior to the bye week. The Seahawks committed to this core by signing Jones to a three-year, $28.5 million extension and re-signing defensive tackle Jarran Reed. They also added veteran pass rusher DeMarcus Lawrence, hoping he can provide a late-career boost.
The draft class is expected to contribute immediately, with first-round offensive lineman Grey Zabel, second-round safety Nick Emmanwori, and second-round tight end Elijah Arroyo filling key needs. Third-round pick Jalen Milroe also adds an intriguing developmental quarterback to the roster.
While the Seahawks were bold, their path forward is uncertain. The success of their season hinges on whether Darnold can sustain his elite-level performance outside of the Vikings’ offense. Critics point to his inconsistent career and a poor finish to last season as reasons for skepticism. The offense must also replace the significant production of Metcalf and Lockett, relying heavily on a potential-but-unproven chemistry between Darnold, Smith-Njigba, and an aging Kupp.
If Darnold proves his breakout was no fluke and the defense maintains its late-season form, Seattle could improve on its 10 wins and challenge for the NFC West title. However, if Darnold regresses and the offense struggles without its former stars, the offseason gambles could backfire, leading to a losing record and significant second-guessing. Ultimately, despite the roster turnover, the Seahawks may find themselves where they were last season: a competitive but middle-of-the-pack team fighting to stay above .500.
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